I guess most of you have well-started birds by now, would love to see some pics of the juveniles.
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If you're anywhere in the South (especially in Texas), I was recommended to visit http://www.bluestar-ranch.com/ for an Australorp breeder.
No idea if they are show-quality birds, but I saw someone asking about a breeder earlier in the thread.
There is my $1.50. Two cents just ain't what it used to be.
@MnMPoultry
, I'm new to all this, but as I am extremely interested in breeding to SOP, I have done some extensive reading and studying on the subject. I'll put my theoretical knowledge to the test and see how it goes.
I know the Australorp is a "bird of curves." The photos I have looked at for Reserve Champions at shows and Best of Breed all show one swooping curve from the comb to the tail. I feel like his back is a little "flat."
On hens, the tail should be held at no more than a 40 degree angle.
The comb should be well-pointed (I know you said he was running with the regular flock, so I don't know if the nubs are from that). In both sexes, the comb should be held erect.
Maybe it's the lighting, but the hen looks like she's got a little blue/purple on her. The only sheen visible should be green.
I hope that helps! I also hope it is accurate. Like I said, I am so very new to this and am learning everyday. I would to love to get some input from someone more experienced to see how I did.
All the above aside, those are some beautiful Australorps! I'm curious where you got them.